Hamas Political Leader Ismail Haniyeh Killed in Iran
01.08.2024: In a significant and dramatic turn of events, Hamas announced that its political leader, Ismail Haniyeh, was killed in an Israeli strike in Tehran, the capital of Iran. This incident has intensified regional tensions, pushing the Middle East into a new and unpredictable phase.
Key Developments:
- Assassination in Tehran: Hamas confirmed that Ismail Haniyeh was killed in an Israeli strike in Tehran. This marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict.
- Israeli Response: Israel has neither confirmed nor denied responsibility for the assassination. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in a defiant statement, vowed to continue the fight, asserting that Israel is “ready for any scenario” and has delivered “crushing blows” to its adversaries.
- Series of Attacks: Haniyeh’s assassination follows the killing of a senior Hezbollah commander in Lebanon by Israel, marking the second high-profile assassination of an Iran-backed figure within a day.
- Iran’s Vow for Retaliation: Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei condemned the killing and promised retribution, stating, “You killed our dear guest in our house and now have paved the way for your harsh punishment.” Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken clarified that the U.S. was “not aware of or involved in” Haniyeh’s killing.
Diplomatic Repercussions:
- Japan’s Decision: In a related diplomatic development, Japan has decided not to invite Israel to the ceremony commemorating the 1945 atomic bombing of Nagasaki. This decision follows a letter from Nagasaki’s mayor, Shiro Suzuki, to Israel, urging a ceasefire in Gaza. The mayor expressed concerns about potential protests disrupting the ceremony.
- Controversial Invitations: In contrast, Hiroshima has extended an invitation to Israel for its annual ceremony on August 6. This decision has sparked controversy among activists and atomic bomb survivors’ groups, who believe Israel should be excluded this year, similar to the exclusions of Russia and Belarus over the invasion of Ukraine.